How to protect your outdoor Ping Pong Table

If you have a ping pong table that is to be left outside permanently, you must make sure that it has been specifically designed for outdoor use. Outdoor ping pong tables are the number one choice for many people because they offer players flexibility as they can be utilized both indoors and outdoors. However, they still need to be well maintained for them to last.

Why do you need to maintain your ping pong table?

Most low-cost tables are made from a mix of materials like melamine, aluminum, plywood resin, as well as other types of resin to allow then to withstand the harshness of the outdoors. The best and higher-end tables are typically made from galvanized steel undercarriages and weatherproof posts, nets, and top surface.

But even these high-end tables will start to wear and tear after they have been used for a while. When left outside, these tables are usually exposed to external elements which definitely impact one’s gameplay. Stains, dust, and debris are some of the drawbacks that most players are keen on avoiding.

If your ping pong table is not clean or if it has dents or scratches on the playing surface:

• The table will fail to generate competition worthy bounces and spins.
• The table will affect how your table tennis paddle works.
• The surface will slowly start to deteriorate and could even lead to irreversible damage.

Anyone serious about ping pong already knows that the table’s surface is one of the most important things to keep your eye on as it will impact your gameplay experience. Whenever you clean your table, you automatically enjoy a better grip and bounce off the table- kind of like playing on a brand-new surface.

With regular maintenance and care, however, a well-maintained ping pong table should provide you years of great service. The good news is that taking care of a ping pong table is not as hard or as complicated as it may first appear. All you need is the right accessories and tools for effective long-lasting care.

Wondering what it is you can do to keep your outdoor ping pong table protected? Here are tips that can help you keep your table safe:

Maintaining the surface of your ping pong table

The tabletops of outdoor ping pong tables require the utmost care and attention. To prevent the surface from fading or scratching and denting, corrosive or harsh cleaning products should never be utilized for cleaning.

Instead, you should go for gentle, water-based cleaners that will keep the surface intact. Most of the specialized cleaners in the market are designed to provide optimum efficiency as well as anti-static action so that you can use the table without worrying about your technique.

If you do not have access to these specialized cleaners, all you need is clean water but you can also use a mild cleaner such as vinegar. To clean your table, dip a soft cloth in clean water and go over every surface, wiping away any stains and dirt gently.

Before you start the cleaning process, be sure to remove any accessories attached to the table such as the net so that you can clean every nook and cranny of your outdoor ping pong table without any obstructions.

If you decide to use vinegar, make sure that you dilute it with some water first. This is because vinegar is highly acidic and it can damage the surface of your table if it is used in its undiluted form.

Invest in a high-quality protective cover

If you’ve ever purchased or are considering purchasing an outdoor ping pong table, one of the best things that you can do to protect your investment is to purchase a high-quality protective cover. Not only will a protective cover keep your table protected from the harsh elements, but it will also ensure that your table remains durable so that it can serve you for years to come.

In the past, tables weren’t covered using any protective covering. Older tables were primarily stationary but with legs that could be folded up for storage- kind of like a card table. Unlike the newer tables in the market that can be stored vertically, these kinds of tables were harder to store, which further increased the need for protective coverings.

Covering a ping pong table that is going to remain outdoors is just common sense. The tarp-like protective covering is vital for protecting your outdoor ping pong table from the wind, sun, dirt and debris, precipitation, and even your pets and other animals (hello bird poo!).

A protective cover will also ensure that the playing surface remains scratch and dent-free. A ping pong table with a few scratches here and there may not seem like a big deal at first. However, all ping pong table surfaces must remain flat, smooth, and dent-free in order for them to serve their purpose effectively.

For the best care possible, it is best to go for a heavy-duty and waterproof protective cover that will prevent the table from being damaged by not just the weather, but animal droppings as well as errant toys, balls, and yard tools. There is no telling what your table will come into contact with so its best to keep it protected at all times when it’s not in use.

One more thing to remember…

While cleaning your outdoor ping pong table is always a welcome idea, you mustn’t overdo it. The surface of your table is a lot gentler than it appears. Most surfaces are made from wood or its derivatives, which makes them very sensitive to humidity and moisture. As such, when cleaning, only wipe the surface with a little amount of cleaner or water, taking care not to exceed the recommended amount.

 Final Thoughts

Rain, snow, wind, debris, dust- you name it and you can be sure that your outdoor ping pong has inevitably been exposed to these harmful components. Even though most tables are made to offer players superior durability, this does not preclude them from expected wear and tear especially with regular usage. Lucky for you, taking care of a ping pong table isn’t hard at all. All you need is to have the right accessories and tools to ensure that your table is well cared for.